Where to go for help

Talk to someone

It's important to tell someone how you feel, whether it's a friend, counsellor or doctor. It may bring an immediate sense of relief.

It may help to talk to someone you trust first, such as a friend, member of your family or a tutor.

This is especially important if your studies are being affected.

University counselling services

Many colleges and most universities have a free and confidential in-house counselling service you can access, with professionally qualified counsellors and psychotherapists.

You can usually find out what they offer and how to make an appointment in the counselling service section of your university's website. This free service in universities is available to both undergraduates and postgraduates.

As well as counselling or therapy, you may also be entitled to "reasonable adjustments" such as extra time in exams, extensions on coursework, and specialist mental health mentor support.

Student-led services

Many student unions also offer student-led services. Although the students involved are not qualified counsellors, you may prefer to talk about problems such as stress and depression with another student.